Advert for the Home Counties Coal Co Ltd

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Large houses in 19th century Britain had fireplace in every room. At the beginning of the period wood was the most popular fuel, but gradually grates were designed for the use of coal, which didn’t flare up and didn’t need tending as often. In such large houses, it was the servant's job to get up early to start a fire in the most frequently used rooms. A fireplace in the bedroom was considered a luxury, and only the very wealthy could afford to keep it running. Kitchens, on the other hand, had fires burning all day and were probably the warmest place in the house.